The University of South Carolina is a known leader in educating the state’s teachers
and nurses, helping to address workforce shortages in areas critical to the state’s
future. But it also holds the additional distinction of being home to some of the
nation’s best online graduate programs for working professionals in the fields.

U.S. News and World Report released its annual ranking of online graduate programs
on Tuesday (Jan. 15) and UofSC’s education and nursing online graduate programs both
excelled, with the College of Nursing’s programs ranking No. 6 overall (No. 3 among
public programs) and the College of Education’s online graduate offerings ranking
No. 34 in the nation.

For more than 15 years, UofSC has offered innovative online graduate degree programs,
creating a pathway for professionals to earn advanced degrees from anywhere in South
Carolina. The 2019 U.S. News and World Report rankings are based on a number of criteria,
including student engagement, admissions selectivity, faculty credentials and training,
peer reputation, and student services and technology.

UofSC’s College of Education offers eight online degree programs, ranging from a bachelor’s program for elementary education teachers to two unique
programs for doctoral degree seekers. The new rankings place the college’s online
graduate programs in the top 12 percent nationally, a significant jump over last year’s
rankings.

“The large improvement in our rankings reflects the excellence in our faculty and
staff and shows that our students are receiving a high quality and superior education,”
says College of Education Dean Jon Pedersen. “Through our online degrees and programs,
we are able to reach students who otherwise may not be able to access our traditional,
on-campus courses. The UofSC College of Education produces more educators than any
other institution in the state, and we are focused on designing programs and opportunities
to meet the specific needs of teachers and educational administrators.”

The College of Nursing offers four master’s degree programs in critical needs areas like geriatrics and
mental health as well as post-master’s certificates and a doctoral program for those
interested in clinical specialties and executive leadership. Dean Jeanette Andrews
credits the college’s emphasis on creating an immersive educational experience for
the online program’s ongoing success.

“All of our students, alumni, faculty and staff should take great pride in this top
national ranking for the fifth consecutive year. Their hard work and commitment to
excellence and impact are what distinguishes the University of South Carolina College
of Nursing,” Andrews says.

To learn more about all of UofSC’s online graduate programs and courses, visit the online catalogue.